What material is the fuel tank of a sedan car made of?
2 Answers
Automobile fuel tanks are made of two materials: iron and aluminum alloy: 1. Iron fuel tank: Gasoline has strong corrosion on iron, so the rust prevention of iron fuel tanks becomes the biggest issue in tank quality. 2. Aluminum alloy fuel tank: Aluminum alloy not only meets the requirements in terms of strength but also has significant advantages in corrosion resistance compared to iron and other new materials. During the promotion of National IV and V vehicles, it has also become the preferred choice for large buses and heavy trucks, which have high fuel consumption and stringent fuel quality requirements. Relevant information about automobile fuel tanks is as follows: 1. Introduction: The automobile fuel tank is the full name of the car fuel tank. Currently, with the development of the automobile industry and the revitalization of the domestic automobile industry, the demand for automobile fuel tanks from major automobile manufacturers has shown a significant growth trend. 2. Design principle: Utilizing the heat energy generated by the engine during vehicle operation, a thermal circulation system is added between the engine, fuel tank, and water tank. The original single fuel tank is designed as a combined fuel tank composed of a main tank and an auxiliary tank.
I've driven quite a few cars and noticed significant changes in fuel tank materials. Older vehicles mostly used metal tanks, such as steel or galvanized steel, which were prone to rust and corrosion. Over time, they could develop leaks, requiring frequent inspections. Nowadays, new cars like the sedan I currently drive have largely switched to plastic materials, specifically high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These are lightweight and durable, weighing about 30% less than metal, which helps improve fuel efficiency. Safety-wise, plastic tanks have clear advantages—they deform flexibly during collisions instead of being rigid like metal, reducing the risk of fires or explosions, a crucial factor especially at high speeds. Plastic is also resistant to acid and alkali corrosion, making maintenance simpler, with fewer worries about upkeep for several years. However, a downside is that plastic may slightly deform or become brittle over time, requiring regular checks for cracks to prevent leaks and environmental contamination. Cost-wise, replacing a plastic tank is about 1,000 to 2,000 RMB cheaper than a metal one, making it more budget-friendly for average car owners. Overall, the material upgrade makes daily driving safer and more convenient with fewer headaches.
